Ascend to Avalon's most beloved hilltop monument — the grand Wrigley Memorial — set within a living tapestry of rare Catalina Island endemic plants. A serene, inspiring escape into natural beauty and island history above the harbor bustle.
What to expect
A charming open-air tram (or a brisk 20-minute uphill walk) carries you up Avalon Canyon to the garden's entrance, where 38 acres of curated botanical splendor unfolds. Winding pathways lead past towering Catalina ironwood trees, rare St. Catherine's lace shrubs, and native succulents that have survived on this island for millennia. At the garden's heart, the Wrigley Memorial rises in terracotta, glazed tile, and polished stone — a monument to the chewing-gum magnate whose vision saved much of Catalina. Climb its steps for panoramic views over Avalon's terracotta rooftops and the sapphire Pacific beyond. The atmosphere is unhurried, fragrant, and genuinely moving.
Good to know
The garden is open daily; confirm hours at catalinaconservancy.org before your visit. Comfortable walking shoes are a must — paths are gently uneven. A tram service runs from the center of Avalon if you prefer not to walk the canyon road. Budget 1.5–2 hours for a leisurely visit. Arrive by late morning to allow time for the rest of Avalon.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Avalon — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Avalon
- Private Golf Cart Tour of Avalon with Expert Local Guide
- Catalina Casino: Art Deco Icon & Panoramic Tower Tour
- Undersea Sub Expedition: Kelp Forest & Marine Life Dive
- Lovers Cove Marine Reserve Snorkel & Glass-Bottom Kayak
- Catalina Falconry Experience: Fly a Hawk Over the Pacific
- Descanso Beach Club: Private Cabana & Catalina Coastal Luxury
- Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour: Five Lines Over the Pacific at Dusk
- Catalina Island Conservancy Eco-Jeep Wildland Adventure